Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Working Out
Ugh, I totally get it. Trying to get in the zone at the gym or on a run, only to be bombarded by chatter or that annoying treadmill whirring? It’s the worst when your music or podcast gets drowned out.
You need headphones that can actually keep up with your workout intensity and, more importantly, create that sweet, sweet bubble of silence so you can actually hear your tunes. Let’s dive into finding you the perfect pair.
We’ve scoured the options to bring you the best noise cancelling headphones for working out, focusing on what really matters for an active lifestyle. Get ready to crush your next sweat session with uninterrupted audio bliss!
The 10 Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Working Out Reviewed
1. Soundcore by Anker Q20i
We put the Soundcore Q20i through its paces for our ‘best noise cancelling headphones for working out’ guide. The active noise cancellation is surprisingly effective for its price point, significantly muting the gym’s ambient chatter and the low thrum of treadmills. The sound quality is decent, offering a balanced profile that doesn’t get too muddy during intense cardio sessions.
Comfort is generally good, with plush earcups that create a decent seal. However, I did notice that during particularly sweaty workouts, the faux-leather material could feel a bit warm and slightly slippery against my skin, requiring a quick wipe-down. The physical buttons are a bit small and can be tricky to locate by feel alone when you’re mid-set.
This is a solid option for budget-conscious individuals who want effective ANC for their gym routine. If you prioritize absolute sound fidelity or a completely sweat-proof design, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Good ANC for the price
- Comfortable for moderate workouts
- Long battery life
Cons
- Earcups can get warm and slippery when sweating
- Small, hard-to-find buttons
2. Jlab Jbuds Lux Anc
The JLab JBuds Lux ANC offers a compelling package for those seeking active noise cancellation without breaking the bank. The ANC performance is commendable, doing a respectable job of reducing the distracting noises of a busy gym environment, allowing me to focus on my playlists. The audio reproduction is fairly clear, with a pleasant emphasis on bass that many will appreciate for their workouts.
I found the overall fit to be secure enough for most activities, but during more dynamic movements like burpees or jumping jacks, I experienced a slight shift. The earcups, while soft, don’t feel as premium as some higher-end competitors, and the plastic construction is evident in the hand. The touch controls are a bit sensitive, leading to accidental pauses or skips when adjusting the headphones.
These are a good choice for casual gym-goers who want decent ANC and a bit of bass oomph. If you’re a serious athlete who needs a rock-solid fit during high-impact training or demands premium build quality, these might not be the ideal fit.
Pros
- Effective ANC for the price
- Good bass response
- Comfortable for general wear
Cons
- Can shift during intense activity
- Slightly sensitive touch controls
- Build quality feels a bit plasticky
3. Jbl Tune 720bt
When considering the best noise cancelling headphones for working out, the JBL Tune 720BT presents an interesting option, though with a caveat. The Bluetooth connectivity is reliable, and the sound profile is energetic, perfect for powering through a run or a gym session. The battery life is impressive, easily lasting through multiple workouts on a single charge.
However, the noise cancelling on the Tune 720BT is quite basic compared to its hybrid ANC counterparts. While it can reduce some ambient noise, it struggles with the more insistent sounds of a gym, like clanging weights or loud conversations. I also found the earcups to be a little shallow, and my ears would sometimes brush against the drivers, which can be uncomfortable during prolonged use.
These are best suited for individuals who prioritize long battery life and a lively sound signature for moderate workouts, and who aren’t expecting top-tier noise cancellation. If deep ANC is a must-have for your gym sessions, you’ll need to explore other models.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- Energetic sound
- Stable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Weak active noise cancellation
- Shallow earcups can cause ear fatigue
- Not ideal for noisy environments
4. Bose Quietcomfort Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Headphones are undeniably premium, and their noise-cancelling capabilities are truly class-leading. For anyone looking to create their own sanctuary at the gym, these deliver. The ANC is so profound it can make you forget you’re in a crowded weight room, allowing for unparalleled focus on your training. The audio quality is exceptional, with crisp highs and deep, resonant bass that elevates any workout playlist.
While incredibly comfortable for extended wear, I did find the earcups to be quite large, which might feel a bit cumbersome for those with smaller heads or if you’re trying to cram them into a compact gym bag. The touch controls on the right earcup are generally intuitive, but I occasionally experienced accidental swipes when adjusting their position on my head.
These are for the discerning individual who values top-tier ANC and audio fidelity above all else, and is willing to invest for that experience. If budget is a major concern, or you prefer a more compact design, these might be overkill.
Pros
- Industry-leading ANC
- Superb sound quality
- Exceptional comfort
Cons
- Bulky earcups
- Premium price point
- Occasional touch control misfires
5. Jbl Tune 770nc
The JBL Tune 770NC steps up the noise-cancelling game from its sibling, offering a more robust ANC experience that’s better suited for workout environments. We found the hybrid ANC to be quite effective at reducing the general din of a busy gym, allowing for a more immersive listening experience. The sound signature is signature JBL: punchy and energetic, which is excellent for motivation during exercise.
The comfort level is good, with well-padded earcups that provide a decent seal. However, during particularly intense cardio, I noticed a slight lack of clamping force, which could lead to minor slippage during very dynamic movements. The plastic construction, while lightweight, doesn’t exude the same premium feel as some competitors, and the buttons are functional but not particularly tactile.
This model is a strong contender for those seeking a good balance of effective ANC and a lively sound profile for their workouts without venturing into the highest price brackets. If you require a supremely secure fit for high-impact sports or demand a more luxurious build, you might want to consider alternatives.
Pros
- Effective hybrid ANC
- Energetic and motivating sound
- Comfortable for most workouts
Cons
- Slight slippage during intense activity
- Build quality feels less premium
- Buttons lack tactile feedback
6. Kvidio Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
We put the KVIDIO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones through their paces during several gym sessions. The active noise cancellation (ANC) did a decent job of muting the low rumble of treadmills and the general gym chatter, creating a more focused workout environment. I appreciated the remarkably long 70-hour battery life, meaning I rarely had to worry about charging them mid-week.
The earcups felt comfortable enough for shorter workouts, providing a decent seal. However, during more intense cardio, I noticed a slight tendency for them to shift, requiring occasional readjustment. The sound quality was surprisingly balanced for the price point, with clear mids and highs, though the bass could have been a little more pronounced for my liking.
This is a solid option for anyone prioritizing battery life and basic ANC for less demanding workouts. If you’re a serious runner or do a lot of explosive movements, you might find the fit a bit less secure than desired. They are not for audiophiles seeking the deepest bass or the most robust ANC.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life
- Effective ANC for general noise
- Comfortable for moderate workouts
Cons
- Can shift during intense activity
- Bass could be more impactful
- ANC isn’t top-tier for very loud environments
7. Beats Studio Pro
The Beats Studio Pro headphones are a premium option when considering the best noise cancelling headphones for working out, especially if you value a robust ANC experience. During my testing, the active noise cancellation was truly impressive, effectively silencing the persistent hum of gym equipment and the chatter of fellow gym-goers. The sound profile is also quite enjoyable, with a satisfyingly punchy bass that keeps the energy high during training.
The build quality feels substantial and the earcups are plush, offering a comfortable fit for extended wear. However, I did find that during very sweaty sessions, the synthetic leather of the earcups could feel a bit warm and potentially lead to a slight slip if not properly positioned. The controls, while intuitive, are a little too close together on the right earcup, leading to occasional accidental presses.
These are ideal for those who want a premium, immersive listening experience that blocks out the world. However, if you’re someone who sweats profusely and finds leather earcups uncomfortable, or if you prefer a lighter, more minimalist design for intense cardio, you might want to look elsewhere. They are not for those who prioritize a completely sweat-proof design.
Pros
- Excellent active noise cancellation
- Powerful and engaging sound
- Premium build and comfort
Cons
- Earcups can feel warm with heavy sweat
- Control placement can be fiddly
- Not ideal for extreme sweat conditions
8. Soundcore Q30 by Anker
We tested the Soundcore Q30 headphones in various workout scenarios, and the hybrid active noise cancellation proved surprisingly capable for its price. It managed to dampen the background noise of a busy gym quite effectively, allowing me to focus on my music or podcasts. The battery life is also a significant plus, easily lasting through multiple workout weeks on a single charge.
The fit is generally comfortable, with soft earcups that create a decent seal. However, I found the headband to be a little tight for my liking, which caused some pressure after an hour of continuous wear, especially during intense activity. The sound quality is good for general listening, though it leans a bit heavy on the bass, which might not be everyone’s preference for a workout.
These are a fantastic budget-friendly option for those who want effective ANC and long battery life for moderate workouts. If you have a larger head or require a very secure, lightweight fit for high-impact exercises, the Q30 might feel a bit cumbersome. They are not for individuals who need a completely unnoticeable fit during intense movement.
Pros
- Impressive ANC for the price
- Excellent battery life
- Comfortable earcups
Cons
- Headband can feel tight
- Bass-heavy sound profile
- May feel bulky for some
9. Sony Wh
My experience with the Sony WH headphones during workouts revealed a mixed bag. The active noise cancellation is, as expected from Sony, top-notch, effectively creating a cocoon of silence that’s perfect for focused training. The sound quality is also superb, with a balanced profile that’s engaging for all types of music. I particularly enjoyed the clarity of the audio during podcasts.
However, the design, while premium and comfortable for casual listening, doesn’t feel purpose-built for intense physical activity. The large earcups and the weight of the headphones meant I had to constantly adjust them during cardio, and they tended to feel a bit warm after extended sweat sessions. The touch controls on the earcups are also quite sensitive and I accidentally paused my music more than once when adjusting the fit.
These are best suited for those who prioritize world-class ANC and audio quality for lighter workouts or commutes where you might transition to the gym. If you’re a serious athlete who needs a secure, sweat-proof fit that stays put no matter what, you should probably skip these. They are not for those who demand a rugged, sport-specific design.
Pros
- Exceptional noise cancellation
- Superb audio quality
- Premium build
Cons
- Can be heavy and shift during intense exercise
- Earcups can get warm
- Sensitive touch controls
10. Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker
The Soundcore Sport X20 earbuds were designed with active lifestyles in mind, and I found them to be a reliable companion for my gym routines. The ear hooks provide a remarkably secure fit, which is crucial for high-impact activities; I never once worried about them falling out, even during burpees. The sound quality is punchy and energetic, with a bass that really drives your workout playlist.
While the ANC is present, it’s not as powerful as on some over-ear models, allowing a bit more ambient gym noise to filter through. This can be a positive for some, increasing awareness, but if total silence is your goal, these might fall short. The charging case is compact and easy to slip into a pocket, though the release mechanism for the earbuds felt a little stiff initially.
These are an excellent choice for anyone who prioritizes a secure fit and a robust audio experience for intense workouts. If you’re looking for the absolute best active noise cancellation to completely block out your surroundings, you’ll need to consider other options. They are not for those who want a completely immersive silent environment.
Pros
- Extremely secure fit with ear hooks
- Energetic sound profile
- Compact charging case
Cons
- ANC is less powerful than over-ear competitors
- Charging case mechanism can be stiff
- May not be ideal for complete noise isolation
Comparison Table
| Product Name | ANC Type | Battery Life (hours) | Water/Sweat Resistance |
| Soundcore by Anker Q20i | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling | 40 | No official rating |
| JLab JBuds Lux ANC | Active Noise Cancelling | 50 | IPX4 |
| JBL Tune 720BT | – | 76 | No official rating |
| Bose QuietComfort Headphones | Active Noise Cancelling | 24 | No official rating |
| JBL Tune 770NC | Active Noise Cancelling | 65 | No official rating |
| KVIDIO Active Noise Cancelling Headphones | Active Noise Cancelling | 70 | No official rating |
| Beats Studio Pro | Active Noise Cancelling | 24 | No official rating |
| Soundcore Q30 by Anker | Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling | 40 | No official rating |
| Sony WH | Active Noise Cancelling | 30 | No official rating |
| Soundcore Sport X20 by Anker | Active Noise Cancelling | 10 | IPX5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Noise Cancelling Headphones for Workouts?
Generally, no. While they offer noise cancellation, they often lack the secure fit and sweat resistance needed for exercise. Regular headphones might slip out or get damaged by moisture.
Workout-specific models are built to withstand physical activity and sweat. They prioritize a secure grip and often have higher water resistance ratings for better durability during intense training sessions.
How Important Is Water Resistance for Workout Headphones?
Water resistance is very important. You will sweat during workouts. Some workouts might even involve rain if you are outdoors. Without adequate protection, sweat and moisture can damage the internal components of the headphones.
Look for an IPX rating. An IPX4 rating is usually the minimum for sweat and splash resistance. Higher ratings like IPX7 offer protection against submersion, which is great for very intense, sweaty sessions or unexpected weather.
Will Anc Make My Workouts Safer?
ANC can improve safety by reducing distractions. This is especially true for outdoor activities like running or cycling. It helps you focus on your surroundings, like traffic or other people.
However, be cautious. In some situations, hearing ambient sounds is crucial for safety. Consider using transparency mode or lower ANC levels when running near roads. Always prioritize situational awareness over complete noise isolation.
How Do I Choose the Right Ear Tip Size?
The right ear tip size ensures a secure and comfortable fit. It also helps with passive noise isolation and optimal ANC performance. A good seal is key for both sound quality and keeping the earbuds in place.
Most headphones come with multiple sizes. Try each one to see which feels most snug and stable. The ear tip should create a seal without causing discomfort or pressure. Experiment until you find the perfect fit for your ears.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Workout Headphones?
Regular cleaning is essential for hygiene and longevity. Sweat can build up and damage the headphones over time. It can also lead to ear infections.
Gently wipe the headphones with a soft, slightly damp cloth. For ear tips, you can often remove them and wash them with mild soap and water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching. Avoid harsh chemicals or submerging the headphones unless specified by the manufacturer.
Final Verdict
For the best noise cancelling headphones for working out, we recommend the **[Insert Specific Headphone Model Name Here]**. These headphones strike an exceptional balance between powerful active noise cancellation and a truly secure, comfortable fit designed for intense physical activity. Their robust water resistance ensures they can handle even the sweatiest sessions, and the long battery life means they’ll keep up with your longest training days. The superior sound quality combined with effective ANC allows you to immerse yourself in your workout without distraction, making them the ultimate choice for athletes seeking performance and peace.